10 Hotels in Symonds Yat, UK - Best Price Guarantee - Booking.com reviews Beautiful location, lovely for walking and great traditional... Beautiful location, lovely for walking and great traditional pubs. We ate at the Wye knot public house, lovely home cooked food, also the Court Hotel, really nice food and beautiful old building, although the food was a little on the expensive side. There are plenty of treks for walking along the River Wye where you can also canoe. Loved our stay at the Paddock Hotel the owner Peter was really friendly and helpful. Room was to a high standard of cleanliness. Bright and comfortable room with everything you need and the bed was really comfy I had a wonderful nights sleep, its so quite and relaxing. Thank you Peter and we will see you again. Richard Ye Old Ferrie Inn “Had an amazing time at Ye Old Ferrie Inn. The location couldn't be better, we had a lovely view to the river from our hotel room. Breakfast was absolutely delicious and the service was good. The staff was very friendly. They were always there to help and even took us across the river with the ferry after the regular ferry operating hours and even waited for us to take us back!

The sticky toffee pudding was the best one I have had so far!! Would definitely stay there again.” Old Court Hotel & Suites “We had a 4 poster bedroom which was lovely and the bed was really comfy. Staff were very helpful and very efficient. Lots of atmosphere in the hotel, more like a great pub and the menu was pub like too - just the sort of place we particularly like. A short walk to the hand ferry to Symonds Yat East and lots of things on the doorstep to do.” The Saracens Head Inn “We stayed here in March, the staff were the friendliest most attentive staff I've ever had in a hotel stay anywhere! The entire place was immaculately kept, and the setting stunning. We had a river view room that felt like it was right over the river. I wouldn't hesitate to go back or recommend to someone.” Symonds Yat Rapids - Wikishire Symonds Yat Rapids Bottom wave Seal launch Symonds Yat Rapids are a feature on the River Wye , near Symonds Yat on the Gloucestershire and Herefordshire border, between Symonds Yat West and Symonds Yat East at the end of the river's long loop at Symonds Yat.

This reach of the river is all in a deep gorge. The rapids are man-made for the purpose of water sport, and are rated "grade-2" for difficulty. They are most commonly used by canoeists and kayakers for whitewater training and playboating. Construction and management Man-made rock walls have been installed to modify the flow of the river on river right, and provide waves and eddies. The British Canoe Union purchased the banks to the river in 2003 allowing year round access. [1] The rapids when flooded Typically the mid-autumn and mid-spring periods provide the best levels. After very heavy rain the features will wash out leaving nothing more than fast flowing water. A guide to Symonds Yat, Herefordshire. Symonds Yat tourist information, local contacts, attractions and reviews map website Forest View Guest House (0.43 miles) Luxury bed and breakfast accommodation located on the banks of the River Wye. The bed and breakfast has a total of thirteen bedrooms; eleven with en-suite bath/shower rooms. There are also two luxury suites ...

More | visit website map website Old Court Hotel (0.62 miles) Built around 1570 the Old Court Hotel passed through the hands of various members of the same family for the next 200 years. The buildings have maintained their character and architectural features, the great oak entrance ... More | visit website map website Norton House (0.75 miles) Norton House was built as a farmhouse from locally quarried stone approximately 300 years ago. Carefully renovated to retain the original stone flag floors, oak beams, inglenook fireplaces, stripped pine shutters and doors, Norton House ... More | visit website map website Portland House (0.81 miles) Easily accessible and family friendly Accommodation. Wheel chair friendly. Bed and Breakfast near Monmouth and near Ross on Wye. Portland House is an impressive dwelling dating, in some part, back to the 17th century, and situated ... More | visit website map website Symonds Yat Rock Lodge (1.64 miles) Stylish bed and breakfast at Symonds Yat Rock on the Wye Valley. You walk directly from your front door into the Forest of Dean. In easy walking distance is Britain's favourite view - at Symonds Yat ...

More | visit website map website Granton House (1.80 miles) We offer a warm welcome at our award winning B&B. The secluded walled garden looks out onto a nature reserve and Coppet Hill beyond with many walks from the door. We provide superior, comfortable ensuite ...

More | visit website Chase Hotel (Wye Valley) - Best Price Guarantee Afternoon tea on the terrace – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire Afternoon tea on the terrace – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire The garden terrace – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire Summer terrace – Chase Hotel – Herefordshire Summer terrace – Chase Hotel – Herefordshire Hotel exterior – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire Hotel exterior – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire View of the hotel – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire Hotel foyer & reception – Chase Hotel – Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire The Chase Bar & Lounge – Chase Hotel – Herefordshire Harry’s Restaurant – Chase Hotel – Herefordshire Harry’s Restaurant – Chase Hotel – Herefordshire Each of the 36 rooms at the Chase Hotel benefit from free Wi-Fi and Sky channels (Sky Sports 1, Sky Sports 2 and Sky 1). Picturesque countryside views are enjoyed by Superior rooms. Marble-tiled en suite bathrooms feature in Executive rooms. All rooms are located on the first floor, up a single flight of stairs. Room service is available.

Wake up inspired. Wake up with Classic British Hotels. Classic Double We say: These rooms look onto an internal area of the hotel. They're great value for a night away: Country style en suite bedroom, 172 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. Double bed. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a bath with shower. Superior Double We say: These rooms look out over the gardens and parkland. They’re bigger than the classic doubles: Country style en suite bedroom, 215 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. Double bed. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a bath with shower. Superior Twin We say: These rooms look out over the gardens and parkland.

They're bigger than the classic doubles: Country style en suite bedroom, 215 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. Two single beds. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a bath with shower. Executive Double We say: These rooms look out over the gardens and parkland. They're bigger than the superior doubles and have larger TVs. Jacuzzi baths feature in the marble en suite bathrooms. Perfect for a romantic weekend away: Country style en suite bedroom, 269 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV (enhanced) with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. Double bed. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a Jacuzzi bath with shower. Executive Twin We say: These rooms look out over the gardens and parkland.

They're bigger than the superior doubles and have larger TVs. Jacuzzi baths feature in the marble en suite bathrooms. Perfect for a romantic weekend away: Country style en suite bedroom, 269 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV (enhanced) with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. Double bed. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a Jacuzzi bath with shower. Four Poster Double We say: These rooms look out over the gardens and parkland. They're the biggest rooms in the house. Jacuzzi or freestanding baths feature in the marble en suite bathrooms: Country style en suite bedroom, 538 sqf, offering free Wi-Fi, satellite TV (enhanced) with Sky channels, digital radio, DVD player, writing desk, direct dial telephone, alarm clock, ironing station, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, Duck Island toiletries, and hairdryer. King-sized bed. Accessible? These rooms are located on the first floor and have a Jacuzzi or freestanding bath with shower.

One room has a double-ended bath and a walk-in shower. Address: 100 Chase Road, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 5JH, UK Phone: Herefordshire Hereford Train Station (16 miles) Gloucester Train Station (16 miles) Birmingham Airport (68 miles) Symonds Yat Symonds Yat is a village in the Royal Forest of Dean. It straddles the River Wye and is a popular tourist destination owing to its stunning river scenery and ancient wooded expanses. Symonds Yat Rock rises 500 feet from the banks of the River Wye and is an internationally renowned viewpoint - the river winds its way around the limestone outcrop through a deeply wooded gorge. It is the site of an Iron Age hill fort and the film location used for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. Download your '12 Easy Walks' leaflet (pdf) . AA Rosette for fine dining The Chase Hotel offers all the benefits of a tranquil, period, country house hotel with the facilities and services you would expect from a professional, business-focussed property. The hotel is ideal for all types of events, from large conferences, to executive meetings.

The Garden room has inspirational views over the hotel grounds with a glass doorway giving breakout into the gardens. It offers the perfect solution for any company seeking a training room with direct access to extensive grounds, within which a variety of outdoor pursuits and team-building activities can be arranged. There is free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking. Piscatorial Quagswagging....: River Wye – Symonds Yat Monday, 2 November 2015 River Wye – Symonds Yat Erwarton cottage within Symonds Yat West was the destination for a weekends fishing with a good mate of mine Simon ‘Feed the Worm’ Champion. It had a separate river-front garden a stones throw away from the cottage (10m) which had its own canoe launch / fishing spot direct on to the river. We didn’t have much planned just a bit of a chill out away from the energy draining whippersnappers and hopefully he would get to land his first river barbel to see what all the fuss is about. The Wye had been clear of late but a smidgen of rain during the week I was hoping there was a tinge of colour to it.

If you haven’t been to Symonds Yat it is right in the centre of an area of outstanding natural beauty. One of the country’s most unique river landscapes, the river and the land either side of it – forest, farmland, gorges, cliffs and rock faces, pretty villages and border towns. It’s centrally positioned on the river between the towns of Monmouth and Ross, and one of the most beautiful stretches of river in Britain…? Near Erwarton, the cliffs rise up to Yat Rock, site of one of the most iconic views in the Wye Valley. Here, Peregrine Falcons breed between May and July. The trail named after these birds, The Peregrine Path, runs along the route of the old Ross-on-Wye to Monmouth railway. At the nearby 'King Arthur's cave' on the Great Doward, there have been many important archaeological discoveries including the remains of a hyena family, Sabre-toothed tigers and even a mammoth. I’d visited this area with the family and ate at the Saracens head a few times, but sadly never wet a line. You bored yet..? , anyway back to the fishing…..

From looking at the photos the canoe launch was long concrete steps so prior to the weekend to make sure at least we could support a rod or two I’d cobbled together some Heath Robinson esk bankstick holders which were made from left over oak sleepers from the garden and some cheapo stage stands off Ebay. To hedge my bets my tackle for the long weekend consisted of a barbel, trotting, feeder and a lure rod. I’d never fished the Wye before but there are perch, pike and maybe even Salmon present so I was hoping I’d pick up a predator or two as well as one of the famous Wye barbs. The barbel set-up was my trusty 1.75lb TC l rod and I’d fish a large feeder running style with Sonubaits spicy meaty method mix blanketing some of their spicy sausage halibut pellets. A Gardner size 8 Talon Tip Hook and Gardner trickster hooklength that I won in a competition finished the business end. Bait on the hair was a pungent spicy boilie or pellet with an accompanying paste wrap. A scent trail that would surely be difficult for a barbel to resist, well that’s what I was hoping anyway.

Maggot, lobworms and garlic spam were also in my armory and would be used from time to time through the weekend; I’m sure there were good dace and roach to be had and maybe even a shy barbel. I know the Wye is also famous for its Pike and I had planned to bring the associated gear but sharing a car there would be far too much stuff so a small stiff lure rod and a handful of lures and spinner would have to do. Friday was a non-starter so having got there at 4.00ish and checked out where we would be fishing, the Ye Old Ferrie Inn (YOFI) was the second port of call to talk tactics for the rest of the weekend,it was ideal, staggering distance back to the cottage, various ales on tap and a proper fire. The 'peg' we would be fishing was far better than I thought so the make shift sleeper rod stands we not needed, a long rod rest went in just past the concrete steps no problem.

After a quick deliberation over a nice steak in the pub, we planned to fish Saturday all-day and in to dark and then Sunday similar but a pit-stop slap up Sunday lunch over the other side of the river at the Saracens Head and then return to fish in to dark and beyond again. The Rugby World cup final was on the Saturday afternoon but as England didn't even qualify for the final rounds we'd listen too it instead,it was prime Barbel feeding time after all and we were here mainly for the fishing. Monday morning could well have been a right off, it was hangover dependent. If the fishing was poor on the Saturday we had a few options to go at but first port of call in the morning after a full English was fishing from the canoe launch that accompanied the cottage, it was what we paid for after all. We’d brought a load of junk food for this trip, beer, pasties, pies, sausages, crisps, Bovril and plenty of brass monkey warming alcoholic drink, one of them the infamous Godfather (3 measures of Whisky and 1 measure of Amaretto Di Sarronno). We’d not starve or feel cold, put it that way….

Now Simon is a freak of nature I’m sure he is harboring a tapeworm of gargantuan proportions, he has arms like knots in cotton and legs to match however his appetite is something of English folklore and legends. He’s fifty next year and probably weighs the same as it did when he was 15. I only have to have a mere sniff of a KFC or a Burger King and it will be with me for life, and yet the Champion has been known to have a whole bargain bucket to his self without any obvious adverse effects. I’m sure his genes could be used by those looking in to society’s obesity problems. I’ve always thought he was a fat bloke waiting to happen….. .…I’m still waiting. When we got to the river I couldn't believe how clear it was, I'd have expected a little colour if I'm honest, I should have bought the proper Pike gear. Another couple of issues too, the water was cold because of the recent Welsh rain and despite not colouring the river it was bring down a load of weed and debris and I knew the fishing would be difficult, it was also predicted to have clear skies for doesn't help when your Barbel fishing....

Anyway in the morning at 7.00am I put out a Barbel rod and fished the maggot feeder, and found that the river really is full of fish, it was a bit a chuck with half decent dace (6oz), small chub, gudgeon and bleak desperate to get at the maggots, a feeder wasn't really needed it was chock full. The first half decent fish was taken broadside by a Pike which was hugging bottom, when it saw me it let go but then it had another snatch when It nearing the margins, Simon got soaked. The Chub was returned but had a lucky escape and had the war wounds to proudly show off. Simon was holding out for the bigger fish and was trotting a lump of meat and also fished a small pellet or boilie. The results were disappointing but not ideal conditions at all. Around 4.30pm with the light starting to fade I caught a small bleak, removed the Barbel hooklink and made up a strong flourocarbon leader and a used a strong size 6 hook. Within 10 minutes to so the live bait was getting interest and sure enough the rod tip registered a bite and a half decent fish was on.

After a reasonable fight and an audience over at the pub and the canoe hire firm, a nice fat Pike was banked. You can see why the Wye has some big Pike, the amount of food they have to eat is obscene. It weighed 9lb 1oz and was a stunningly marked fish. Simon did the honours. I've only just started to target Pike, they have always been a caught when I've been targeting another species. I'm starting to get the bug now. Heading in to dusk and still mild we both planned to fish a couple of hours in to dark and try for a Barbel... Not even a bite, no Chub either, all very weird...We retired to YOFI where another group of anglers were also struggling, not Barbel between 8 rods and only a handful of mediocre Chub.. I had considered a move but we decided to stick it out. Sunday was a strange one, the water had risen a few inches over night and the Wye valley was covered in a thick layer of mist. After getting bored with the maggot feeder I kept a few live baits to try and tempt a Pike again.

The debris had also cleared so I tried the lure rod too switching between a large 6" jointed Rapala, a spinner bait, a Mepps and also a few softbaits. Not a touch on either lure or bleak... Around 9am a huge diesel type slick appeared and it lasted for nearly two hours until it eventually cleared. For lunch we got the hand ferry over to the Saracens Head and had a roast beef dinner a nice bottle of wine and a load of cheese, all very sophisticated. All boarding on 'Broke back Mountain' if you're my mate Deano, then again he hasn't kids and the need for batteries to be recharged once in a while. Upon returning I went all out Pike hunting as the bleak were being scattered in waves within the margins and mid river, but sadly all I could tempt was a small Jack. I'm surprised the Perch or decent Chub didn't feature either, the conditions looked perfect. Come dusk when the canoes had all buggered off I'd switched to the Barbel set-up this time my fail safe a big lump of Garlic spam, Simon fished a pellet and paste wrap...

.....Not even a rattle or a nudge At 8.00pm we packed up and retired to the YOFI and bumped in to the same group of anglers again, the same story as us, not fishing well at all.We had a good time though, nice and chilled and probably >20 hours of fishing, good wine and food and we are already planning the next trip. I'd book the cottage again if I came back here, just maybe a month or 6 weeks earlier. It's old and draughty, and I like my comfort these days. Oh and apparently, Simon has put on a few pound, get that man another Beer, well done to New Zealand too, sounded a good match and thanks to the peregrine falcons they put on a good show for us.By the way, anyone tell me anything about big the red and white house behind the Saracens Head ? A welcome find at the end of a long walk.

- The Saracens Head Inn Restaurant, Symonds Yat Traveller Reviews - TripAdvisor Reviewed 16 October 2012 via mobile The Saracens Head at Symonds Yat is perfectly situated beside the River Wye and beneath the imposing Symonds Yat rock. This stylish Inn offers first class food in the bar and restsurant, together with a good selection of local beers and ciders. The Inn has 10 en-suite rooms most of which have river views. The excellent menu features locally sourced ingredients and the food is well presented. The staff are friendly, helpful and polite. Well worth a visit. Maps | Wye Valley AONB Terms & Conditions Shire Hall is located in the centre of Monmouth, Wales. It is a Grade I* listed, in the classical style architecture designed by Philip Fisher of Bristol in 1724. Shire Hall was the scene of the Chartist Trials, one of the most significant trials in British history. A Forestry Commission Wales site situated in Bargain Wood. Visitors to the site can enjoy pleasant walks that take in a number of fantastic views across the Wye Valley.

The Whitestone picnic and play area offers visitors the opportunity to relax in beautiful surroundings with barbecue facilities and a unique children’s play area. The Buckstone lies in Highmeadow Woods near the village of Staunton ( Village of the stones). The huge rock on the summit of Buckstone Hill is said to have been used in Druid ceremonies, and actually used to rock before it was dislodged in 1885. This point is at 915 feet and one can view panoramic scenery such as views over the Forest of Dean, Highmeadow Woods and the Black Mountains. One of several stones in the area. These are the Toadstone, Broadstone, Longstone and Queen Stone, all of which have origins dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. Nearnby are the Suckstone and Near hearkening Rock Grid reference SO5412 Owned by the Woodland Trust these woods feature old oak woodlands together with coniferous plantations which are slowly being returned to ancient semi-natural woodlands. Wonderful in spring with a mass of bluebells and wild garlic.One of the sections, Bigsweir Woods,, is a site of special scientific interest while Causeway Grove is an ancient coppiced woodland.

Owned by the Woodland Trust this ravine woodland is part of the nationally important Wye Valley woods, Little Doward is a landmark with immense character, diverse species, great views and archaeological and geological interest. Its varied geology and management have helped create a varied mix of habitats, some thought unique to the site. A large part is designated of special scientific interest and its historical links are impressive, as a large hill fort with Bronze Age barrows testifies. The flanks of the hill support ancient woodland. Other sections mix conifers with non-native broadleaves while limestone outcrops support notable flora and fauna species, including the nationally rare white beam tree. Greater and lesser horseshoe bats roost in its limestone caves. To enter, take the path from the car park downhill to King Arthur’s cave and follow the public pathway along the woodland boundary carrying straight on when the path turns sharp left for the river. Grid ref SO538160 The 115 acre ancient woodland of Highbury is a National Nature Reserve. It has unbroken links with the ‘wildwood’ which colonised the area after the last ice age.

It has retained a great variety of plant and animals species and has survived into the present day largely due to its inaccessibility. Much of the woodland canopy is dominated by ash, cherry and small-leaved lime with some mature beech. Large-leaved lime, wild service tree and whitebeam are among the scarcer trees. Yew trees are a particular feature of the reserve and some may be more than 300 years old. Alder dominates the lower slopes, and hazel - along with dogwood, wayfaring tree and spindle - forms the understorey throughout much of the wood.You can access it via the Offa’s Dyke Trail National Path which passes through the reserve. Coppett (sometimes ‘Coppet’) Hill Common is a Local Nature Reserve of over 100 hectares. It is owned by Trustees who live in the parish and conservation work is supported by the Friends of Coppett Hill. It is a mix of woodland and open hillside and a good site for butterflies, birds and fungi. Coppett Hill is easily accessed from the A40 between Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Follow the signs for Goodrich Castle with its car park and toilets.

Walk back through Goodrich following the signs to Welsh Bicknor. There is no parking on Coppett Hill and access is on foot only - no powered vehicles or mountain bikes. The name Haugh, which is pronounced “Hoff” is derived from the name of a Saxon owner indicating that this is the site of an ancient wood. Haugh Woods at nearly 350 hectares (850 acres) is nationally important for butterflies and moths, with over 600 species recorded within it. This makes the wood one of the top 10 woods in the country and is designated as a SSSI due to the presence of these invertebrates. OS Grid Reference: SO 593365 The Kymin is a Naval Temple and Roundhouse, now owned by the National Trust. It has been used as a picnic spot for over 200 years and it is a great place to sit and admire the spectacular views across Wales. Nine acres of pleasure grounds and woods offer a tranquil escape from modern life. The Naval Temple was built by public subscription in 1800. It’s set atop a hill with commanding views of Monmouth and the surrounding countryside.

The Round House is a circular Georgian banqueting house built in 1794 by local gentry for use as a small, private dining club. Lord Nelson and Sir and Lady Hamilton had breakfast here in 1802. The fine twin-towered gatehouse of this castle, built by Edward I in 1292, once defended a crossbow bolt factory which used local Forest of Dean iron. Once a prison, it is now a youth hostel in wonderful walking country. Formerly the site of Speech House colliery, Beechenhurst is now the ideal base for a family day out with walking trails,Gaveller’s cafe and a play area. It has visitor information and is home to the famous Sculpture Trail. Beautiful mature Oak and Beech woodland Bargain Wood lies adjacent to a section of the famous Wye Valley Walk. Visitors to the site can enjoy pleasant walks that take in a number of fantastic views across the Wye Valley.

The Whitestone picnic and play area offers visitors the opportunity to relax in beautiful surroundings with barbecue facilities and a unique children Situated in the heart of Ross-on-Wye in the famous sandstone Market House of 1650, this centre offers a flavour of the heritage of this historic town and also offers extensive resources for the family history researcher, hands-on elements for younger visitors, children’s activities in all of the school holidays and an excellent gift shop stocking local books, gifts and souvenirs. Visit Herefordshire provides all aspects of tourism marketing, research, development and training for the County. Visit Herefordshire can also help with any specific tourism information not covered on their website. There are two Tourist Information Centres (TICs) in Monmouthshire, located in Abergavenny and Chepstow and a Tourist Information Outlet (TIO) in Monmouth. Chepstow and Monmouth are managed directly by Monmouthshire Council. TICs act as a focal point for tourism businesses in the area and a communication channel for information for visitors e.g. on local events, special offers etc. Shire Hall is located in the centre of Monmouth.

It is a Grade I listed, classically designed building designed by Philip Fisher of Bristol in 1724. It is famous for housing the Chartist Trials of 1839/40. It also houses a Tourist Information Centre Abbey Mill is a complex of café and craft shops housed in the Old Mill Buildings. The Old Water Wheel, made in the 1870s and operated until 1951. Power came from this waterwheel, one of 22 waterwheels which lined the banks of the Angidy river, providing energy for the Valley’s industries. The Abbey Mill wheel is the only one to survive. It was taken away to be restored in November 2008.The restoration was a part of an “Overlooking the Wye” project, part funded by the Heritage Lottery. Goodrich Castle stands majestically on a wooded hill commanding the passage of the River Wye into the picturesque valley of Symonds Yat . The castle was begun in the late 11th century, by the English Godric who gave it his name.

One of the most complete medieval castles in Britain, built to guard a ford across the River Wye The ruins of Chepstow Castle have a spectacular setting on cliffs over the River Wye. This powerful defensive position can best be seen from several points on the English side of the river. William Fitzosbern commenced building the castle the year after the Battle of Hastings in 1067, in stone to help subdue the Welsh of Gwent The Abbey remains the best-preserved medieval abbey in Wales. Tintern was only the second Cistercian foundation in Britain, and the first in Wales. The present-day remains are a mixture of building works covering a 400-year period between 1131 and 1536. Brockweir Quay is where the trows from Bristol would load/unload and it was once a busy port. The quay has been cleaned and restored by the Overlooking the Wye project The internationally famous viewpoint is situated 120m above the gorge of the River Wye with views over rural Herefordshire and the mountains of mid-Wales.

It is a Forestry Commission site Nearby cliffs are the nesting place of Peregrine Falcons, you can enjoy watching the birds while they hunt and raise their young from April to August each year. Built as a Victorian country railway station, this Green Flag Award winning site is set in Picturesque surroundings by the River Wye just outside Tintern. With new railway carriages, a signal box, a Victorian Tea Room and Destination Wye Valley exhibition this site offers picnic and barbeque facilities and numerous events Self Catering Holiday Cottages To Rent In Symonds Yat | Sykes Cottages Just Show Me Symonds Yat Cottages Recognised as the 'Birthplace of British Tourism' in the late 18th Century, the Wye Valley Tour promises a sublime blend of breathtaking scenery. It's a place to escape, unwind and indulge in a truly relaxing holiday. And the best place to stay? One of our Symonds Yat holiday cottages, of course! The village straddles the River Wye, with Symonds Yat West in Herefordshire and Symonds Yat East in Gloucestershire.

Getting from one to the other involves a short, over-water trip by hand-pulled ferry; otherwise it's five miles by road. Looming high above at a spectacular horseshoe bend, Yat Rock offers sweeping views over Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire. There's also a Peregrine Viewing Point from April to August, with RSPB staff on hand. Do also look out for barn owls, goshawks, badgers, foxes and fallow deer. Down below rapids race through the steeply wooded gorge - great for exciting journeys by canoe, kayak or white water raft. Other activities include walking riverside trails like the Wye Valley Walk and cycling along an old railway line. Great attractions near our Symonds Yat accommodation Stomp through the woods to King Arthur's Cave. Play hide and seek in the Amazing Hedge Puzzle. Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo. Have a fun day out at the riverside Leisure Park, with amusement rides, adventure playgrounds and river cruises. Or head for the nearest country pub and enjoy a drink and bite to eat. Now take a look at our cottages in Symonds Yat and explore this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty soon!

Please find below self catering holiday cottages to rent in Symonds Yat. Glasbury to Chepstow - "The Wye 100" | Wye Canoes Back to Top Day 2 – Bycross to Hoarwithy, 28.5 miles After leaving Bycross you will start to approach Monnington Falls, you can land on the left gravel bank to inspect the falls, the channel except in flood conditions, is to the left of the island with a small flat at the top. Inspect the whole run of fast water for obstructions and fallen trees before paddling. Shortly after Monnington Falls is Preston on Wye where you will see a church on the right hand bank, then half a mile further is Byford, you will see a few houses on the left hand bank. There are weedy shallows as far as Bridge Sollers. Landing is on left bank 200m below pumping station, in front of black & white cottage. Its an overgrown area and a site of an old ford, there is access to the road down a narrow lane. You are now 10 miles from Hereford.

After 4 miles you pass New Weir, there is no weir there today but a large attractive walled garden on the left, well maintained by the National Trust, with surviving masonry and a cistern from the Roman period, another 2 miles further and pass to the left of the island at Breinton Common then its just 4 miles to the Rowing Club at Hereford. Hereford grew up around an ancient river crossing, which explains its name, meaning ‘ford of the army’. Among the many places of interest are the cathedral and a medieval chained library, the Old House museum, Museum of Cider, city walls and the old castle site at Castle Green. A variety of river crossings include the disused iron railway bridge at Hunderton, the modern Greyfriars Bridge, the Wye Bridge built in 1490 and the elegant Victorian suspension bridge of 1898. After leaving Hereford the river winds its way through the countryside for 8 miles until the confluence of the River Lugg on the left then shortly after you pass underneath the Holme Lacy Bridge and you should see Lucksall Caravan Park on your left where you can purchase ice creams and supplies.

Another 3 miles further down stream you come across Mancell’s Ferry where signs will tell you to keep right around the bend, after another mile you will see Capler Hill, a steep wooded slope on the left bank, leading to the double ramparts of Capler Camp, an Iron Age hill fort. A wide variety of birds inhabit these woods and dappled fallow deer may be sighted, from here to Ross the river follows several large meanders. A mile further down stream are Carey Islands, a group of islands with rapids in between, the best course in normal water is the right of the first island, then shortly after is Carey, a demolished railway bridge. One of three railway bridges crossing the Wye between Ross and Hereford which were dismantled when the Hereford to Gloucester line closed in 1964. Just a couple of miles further is Hoarwithy, you will pass under a road bridge (pic) and the village is on the right. You can land here for a charge at Tresseck Campsite, there is a post office, a pub, New Harp Inn and the prominent ‘Italianate’ church of St Catherine’s which has featured in at least 3 films.

Back to Top Day 3 – Hoarwithy to Symonds Yat, 24.5 miles After leaving Hoarwithy you will see Sellack Suspension footbridge 2 miles down river and Strangford bridge (demolished railway bridge) another mile further, after another mile you will see Fawley Chapel on the left bank and shortly after that How Caple and the Inglestone Estate, for 2 miles downstream the salmon pools are indicated by red and green discs fixed to the trees, please observe and paddle on the green side of the river. Another mile further and you will be at ‘Hole in the Wall’ the PGL canoe centre on the left bank with private access just above the rapids. Just after that is Foy, you will see an elegant suspension bridge, built after an earlier structure was swept away by floods in 1919. The current is restricted by small islands and the channel varies according to level, church on right after 400m. Then its only a mile or so to Backney Common where a simple metal cross sits on the left bank.

This commemorates an act of bravery by the rector of Brampton Abbotts in 1904, who died whilst saving his son and his daughters friend from drowning. Demolished railway bridge (pic) is then just 400m downstream at Backney. Be aware of obstructions and weeds caught up on the bridge. Then Ross is only another 3 miles downstream, there is a long curve on the river from the motorway bridge to Wilton Bridge and The White Lion . The public landing spot is on the curve after The Hope and Anchor pub on left a few hundred meters before Wilton Bridge. The market town of Ross-on-Wye sits attractively on a rise above the river, with a backdrop of wooded hills, interesting features to visit include the market house, plague cross and museums. Car parking is nearby. Leaving Ross you pass under Wilton Bridge and a 13th Century castle on the right just before the bridge. Use the middle arch of the bridge and the channel to the right of the island.

The river then winds it way through fields and woodland until after 5 miles you reach Goodrich Castle , an impressive Norman fortification set against the skyline on the right, it is managed by English Heritage and open daily throughout the year, its also a great place to park and begin a walk along Coppett Hill and back up the section of river that you are about to paddle down. Not long after Goodrich Castle you will reach Kerne Bridge﻿ (pic) where it’s best to pass through the large middle arch and if you like you can land on the gravel bank 50m downstream of the bridge to inspect the fast water for obstructions and fallen trees. The public landing stage is 800m further down river on the left, you will recognise the sloping wheelchair access. It’s another 2 miles before you reach Lower Lydbrook where you will need to go to the left of the island to avoid the over hanging trees. There is a picnic spot on the left with access to public toilets and The Courtfield Arms .

Half a mile downstream on the right you will see Welsh Bicknor Church and Welsh Bicknor Youth Hostel , followed by a railway bridge that is now used as a footbridge, from now on the river is an important fishing stretch and we advise that you pass through quietly and do not land. Symonds Yat Rock is another 2 miles further with Bowens Field on the left just before the river bends underneath Yat Rock (pic), you will see the viewing area 150m up the limestone cliffs on the left as you paddle underneath, and maybe hear and see the Peregrine Falcons that nest in the area. The next stretch of the river runs north through fields with Coppett Hill on your right, it is a great place to see deer and many forms of wildlife. You are now not far from Huntsham Bridge, which indicates a mile or so to Symonds Yat. Once you reach Symonds Yat you are looking for Ye Old Ferrie Inn which will be on the right bank as you travel down river this will also indicate the 13 mile stage of the day and over half way. This is where we are based and probably where you parked up before beginning your trip.

Ye Old Ferrie Inn (pic) which dates back to 15th Century is one of the oldest buildings in the area and after a few hours or days on the river it’s the perfect place to relax and sample the excellent local food & drink while watching the world pass by. With bunkhouse facilities or B&B rooms it’s the perfect to stay on your trip. Day 4 – Symonds Yat to Chepstow, 24.5 miles After leaving Symonds Yat the grade 2 rapids are 15 minutes downriver. After passing through the rapids you will be in one of the best parts of the Wye Valley, with it steep carboniferious gorge walls you will see Seven Sisters viewpoint on your right not long after passing under the suspension footbridge at Biblins campsite . The next landmark will be Hadnock Island which is just before you enter Wales, the Island is best passed on the left and is approx 5 miles from Redbrook. You will know when you are entering Wales as you approach the dual carriageway and will see the Wyastone Estate .

As you approach Monmouth you will see the town on the right with a ruined castle, a market, Nelson Museum and the Navel Temple high on Kymin Hill. Monmouth derives its name from the Monnow river which is bridged by a unique 14th century fortified gate house. You can land at the second set of steps on the right just after the rowing club and before the bridge. After the bridge the river is very shallow and best channel is on the left of the river, you will then see the Monnow river joining the Wye on the right. Beware of underwater obstructions from the demolition of the two railway bridges. For the last couple of miles you are back into the Wye Valley gorge and there are plenty of rocky shallows in this stretch of the river. It will only be a short while before you reach Redbrook, landing is on the left after the disussed railway bridge pictured below. Redbrook has a number of shops and an nice pub on the opposite bank to the landing stage. It was at Redbook that the last recorded act of piracy took place on the River Wye when men came down from the Forest of Dean and captured two barges. There is no record of their arrest.

Here there is a lovely pub to stop at for lunch at The Boat . After 3 miles or so you will see Bigsweir Bridge and an old engine house on the right hand bank from the old railway. The Bigsweir also indicates the tidal limit of the Wye which means you are getting closer to Chepstow and your goal. 800m downstream of Bigsweir Bridge (pic) you will find rapids and a further mile you will reach Llandogo a small village with shops and an Inn on the right. You will find some rapids between here and Tintern and the banks become very muddy due to the tidal waters. The next bridge is Brockweir Bridge and you now have less than ten miles to Chepstow, you will recognise Brockweir Bridge as the Quay just above the bridge on the right hand bank was recently rebuilt, below this point the river is tidal, which is why you need to be accompanied by one of our guides. Just after the bridge there are some small rapids at low water. A further 2 miles downstream is the ruins of Tintern Abbey (pic) a magnificent 12th century Cistercian abbey and very popular tourist attraction.

From here on the tide can be considerable, which is why there is a necessity for you to be accompanied by an experienced guide and you will paddle the next few miles down to Chepstow with your guide following the flow just after high water reaching your 100 mile goal in next to no time. Nice Pub in a picturesque setting. - The Saracens Head Inn Restaurant, Symonds Yat Traveller Reviews - TripAdvisor “Nice Pub in a picturesque setting.” Reviewed 8 November 2012 We only popped into the Pub on a cold Autumn Monday for a quick pint, it was quite busy then and I'd imagine in Summer it would gather quite a trade.Situated on the bank of the Wye, you couln't ask for a more tranquil setting.Large selection of Ales and Ciders on offer, we didn't eat here but what we saw being dished out looked delicious! Must come back when its a bit warmer for a cold pintt in the beer garden! Visited November 2012

Question: Symond's Yat is a prominent rock feature on the banks of which British river?
Answer: THE WYE